Major Immigration Policy Change Announced

In a significant policy shift, the Government of Canada has announced that starting in spring 2025, candidates in the Express Entry system will no longer receive additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for job offers supported by a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This change aims to enhance the integrity of the immigration process and prevent fraudulent activities related to LMIA-based job offers. EAM Global Immigration experts emphasize that this shift underscores Canada’s commitment to a fairer and more transparent selection process.

Understanding the Express Entry System

The Express Entry system is Canada’s primary method for managing applications for permanent residence under three federal economic immigration programs:

1. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
2. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
3. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Applicants are assigned a CRS score based on various factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Previously, candidates with job offers—especially those backed by an LMIA—received additional points, significantly increasing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. EAM Immigration notes that these additional points often created disparities among applicants, which this new policy aims to address.

Why Is Canada Removing LMIA-Based Job Offer Points?

The decision to remove LMIA-based job offer points stems from concerns over fraudulent activities in the immigration process. Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, Marc Miller, stated that this measure aims to curb fraud by eliminating incentives for individuals to illegally buy or sell LMIAs to improve their chances of selection.

By removing these extra points, the government intends to ensure that only qualified candidates are selected based on genuine skills, experience, and credentials, ultimately strengthening the integrity of Canada’s immigration system. EAM Global Immigration welcomes this development as a step towards maintaining a merit-based immigration process.

How Will This Affect Express Entry Candidates?

This change will have several implications for those applying for permanent residency through Express Entry:

1. Level Playing Field for All Candidates

Candidates without job offers will now compete on a more equal footing, as those with LMIA-backed offers will no longer receive an additional points advantage.

• Potential Drop in CRS Cut-Off Scores

With the removal of extra points for LMIA-backed job offers, the overall CRS scores in Express Entry draws may decrease, potentially making it easier for more candidates to qualify.

• Shift in Application Strategies

Applicants will need to focus more on other factors such as:

1. Language proficiency (higher IELTS or CELPIP scores can boost CRS points)
   1. Educational qualifications (especially Canadian degrees, diplomas, or certificates)
   1. Canadian work experience (gaining work experience in Canada can increase CRS scores significantly)

Impact on Immigration from UAE

This policy shift will particularly impact individuals from the UAE, many of whom have leveraged LMIA-based job offers to strengthen their Express Entry applications. Without these additional points, UAE applicants will need to explore alternative pathways to enhance their CRS scores.

Key Considerations for UAE Applicants:

1. PNP Programs: UAE-based professionals should consider Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which can add significant CRS points and provide a more direct route to permanent residency.
2. Canadian Work Experience: Since Canadian work experience is now more valuable, UAE candidates may want to explore temporary work permits or study options that allow them to gain work experience in Canada.
3. Higher Language Proficiency: Achieving a strong IELTS/CELPIP score will be crucial in compensating for the loss of LMIA-based points.
4. Education Credentials: Pursuing a Canadian educational qualification can provide additional CRS points and improve eligibility for Express Entry.

EAM Immigration encourages UAE applicants to carefully strategize their applications and explore multiple pathways to secure their Canadian permanent residency.

Impact on Employers and the Labor Market

For employers who have relied on LMIAs to support foreign workers’ permanent residency applications, this policy change will require adjustments in recruitment and retention strategies. While LMIAs will still be relevant for obtaining temporary work permits, they will no longer provide a direct advantage for Express Entry candidates.

Employers must now adopt comprehensive hiring strategies that do not rely solely on LMIA-based pathways for permanent residency. EAM Immigration advises businesses to explore alternative strategies, such as employer-driven Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), to attract skilled workers.

Transition Timeline and Key Considerations

The policy is set to take effect in spring 2025. Candidates who have already received an ITA or have applications in progress before the implementation date will not be affected. However, anyone in the Express Entry pool at the time of implementation will be subject to the new rules.

Recommendations for Prospective Express Entry Applicants

With this change on the horizon, here are some steps candidates can take to improve their chances of success:

1. Strengthen Language Skills

Achieving higher scores in English (IELTS/CELPIP) or French (TEF/TCF) language proficiency tests can significantly enhance CRS points.

• Pursue Further Education

Higher educational qualifications, particularly those obtained in Canada, contribute positively to CRS scores and overall eligibility.

• Gain Canadian Work Experience

Having Canadian work experience is highly valued in the Express Entry system and can significantly improve CRS rankings.

• Explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Many provinces in Canada offer PNP pathways that provide additional CRS points, making it easier for candidates to receive an ITA. EAM Global Immigration encourages applicants to stay informed about PNPs that align with their skills and career aspirations.

The upcoming removal of LMIA-based job offer points from the Express Entry system marks a significant shift in Canada’s immigration policy. By prioritizing authenticity and reducing fraudulent practices, the government is working towards a fairer and more transparent system.

For prospective applicants, this change means a stronger focus on personal qualifications, skills, and genuine work experience. EAM Immigration suggests that candidates take proactive steps to improve their CRS scores through skill development and strategic career planning. By staying informed and adapting their strategies, applicants can continue to pursue their dream of obtaining permanent residency in Canada.

Stay updated with the latest immigration news to ensure you’re prepared for these upcoming changes!